Exclusive Interview: ‘Body of Lies’ Author David Ignatius – Part 2 of 2

This is part 2 of a 2-part interview with author David Ignatius on the big screen adaptation of his novel “Body of Lies”, directed by Ridley Scott and starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Russell Crowe, which releases in theaters this Friday (10/10/08). You can find part 1 of the interview here which provides more background details on the film.

Hollywood Hills: What level of involvement did you have during the film’s production?

David Ignatius: Because I had worked with the director, Ridley Scott, and the producer, Donald DeLine, on a previous project, they were very generous in showing me drafts of the script and inviting me to visit the set. They listened to what I had to say, which is nice. Often the response to book writers is: Go away!

HWH: Have you discussed any of your other books going to the big screen? If you could pick, which book would you want to see happen next?

Ignatius: My fourth novel, “A Firing Offense,” tells the story of a journalist who is caught between his profession and the CIA. That was bought by Paramount and Tom Cruise, and I still think it would make a very timely movie. My next novel, “The Incremement,” was optioned by Jerry Bruckheimer and Disney. That’s a book I’m fond of, and I really hope they’ll make it into a film.

HWH: What has been the best part of seeing your novel become a movie?

Ignatius: Going to last Sunday’s premiere in New York City and walking the red carpet with my wife and three daughters, surrounded by Leo, Russell and Ridley—that has to be one of the high points of my life.

Big thanks to David Ignatius for taking the time to discuss his work and upcoming release of the Ridley Scott directed spy-thriller. Be sure to go see “Body of Lies” when it releases in theaters this Friday, October 10th 2008.